World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has expressed frustration over what he perceives as a lack of respect from Grand Slam tournaments towards players, as tensions escalate over prize money distribution. Speaking at the Italian Open in Rome, Sinner did not dismiss the possibility of players boycotting major events, echoing warnings from women's top star Aryna Sabalenka.
Players United for Fairer Revenue Share
A coalition of leading male and female players has been pushing for Grand Slams to allocate a larger portion of their revenues to prize money. The group sent an initial letter to tournament organisers in March last year, followed by a second in July, demanding not only increased prize funds but also better player welfare and representation. Sinner highlighted the lack of progress, stating, "It's more about respect. I think we give much more than what we are getting back, and it's not only for the top players—it's for all of us."
Comparisons with Other Sports
The Italian star drew comparisons with other sports, noting that top athletes in football or basketball would receive an immediate response to such requests. "Talking in other sports, if the top athletes send important letters, I truly believe that within 48 hours you have not only a response but you also have a meeting," he said. "Of course we talk about money. The most important is respect, and we just don't feel it."
Boycott Threats Loom
While Sinner stopped short of committing to a boycott, he acknowledged the growing unity among players. "It's the first time that I feel like the players are all in the same scenario and from the same point of view," he added. "Without the players, the tournaments are not going to happen. At the same time, we respect the tournaments because they make us bigger as athletes."
Sabalenka, who earned £3.7 million for winning the US Open last year, has been more direct. Speaking this week, she warned that a boycott might be inevitable. "I feel like that's going to be the only way to fight for our rights. Let's see how far we can get. If it's going to take players to boycott... I feel like nowadays, we girls can easily get together and go for this because some things are really unfair to the players."
Prize Money Increases Fall Short
The French Open recently announced a 9.5% increase in prize money, bringing the total pool to £52.6 million. Last year's US Open had a record £63 million prize pool, up 21% from 2024, with singles champions earning £3.7 million. Wimbledon boosted its prize money by 7% to £53.5 million, while the Australian Open raised its pool to £55 million. However, players argue these increases still represent a small fraction of the tournaments' growing revenues.
Novak Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, has praised Sabalenka's leadership but also stopped short of endorsing a boycott. The dispute continues to simmer, with players demanding a more equitable share of the financial success of Grand Slam events.
